**Breaking Ground in Hostage Rehabilitation: Israel's New Medical Approach**

**Israel is pioneering a new medical discipline dedicated to the care and rehabilitation of individuals released from captivity, offering insights into their emotional and psychological recovery.**

In a groundbreaking initiative, Israel has launched a specialized medical discipline aimed at assisting former hostages in their transition from captivity back into society. This comprehensive approach, tailored to meet the unique needs of ex-hostages, has resulted from collaborative efforts among medical professionals, military personnel, and social welfare experts.

One example of its impact is a woman who was released after 15 months in Gaza. Upon her arrival at Beilinson Hospital near Tel Aviv, she firmly declined any medical tests, showcasing her regained autonomy. "We canceled an entire day’s schedule, which was a sign of progress,” stated Prof. Noa Eliakim-Raz, who oversees the team dedicated to hostages.

Over the past year, a dedicated group in Israel has transformed their collective experiences into a practical guide, updating it continually as new challenges arise. With a diverse set of hostages ranging from infants to the elderly, the team acknowledges the complexity of their assignment, stating, “We are now writing the theory,” said Eti Kisos, a deputy director general at the Ministry of Welfare and Social Affairs.

The foundation for this innovative practice was laid after the Hamas-led attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. Following this assault, roughly 250 individuals were captured. Fortunately, around 100 of them were released during a temporary cease-fire in November, with an additional 30 being returned this year before the truce ended.

As Israel delves deeper into the realm of hostage rehabilitation, this new medical discipline could set a benchmark for how societies can effectively support individuals coming back from traumatic experiences, ensuring their integration and mental well-being.